From Durrës: Wine Tasting at Alpeta Winery in Berat

Exploring Albania’s scenic landscapes and cultural gems is always a treat, but a day trip combining history, wine, and authentic cuisine makes it truly memorable. This particular tour to Berat with Alpeta Winery promises an engaging mix of sightseeing, flavorful wine tasting, and a taste of rural Albanian life—all packed into one full day.

What we love about this experience is the chance to wander through Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town, enjoy premium Albanian wines crafted with care, and indulge in a farm-to-table lunch in the hills. Plus, crossing the famous Gorica Bridge over the Osum River adds a picturesque touch. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is a full day, so it requires a decent amount of energy and time commitment. It’s ideal for those who love history, wine, and genuine local experiences.

For travelers seeking a well-rounded, immersive day outside Durrës, this tour hits many of those marks. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or guests with mobility limitations, given the nature of the activities and transport. If you’re after a taste of Albania’s past and present in one package, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion in Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town and historic sites.
• Premium Albanian wines and raki, crafted with traditional methods.
• Scenic views of Berat’s hills and Osum River, perfect for photography.
• Farm-to-table Albanian lunch, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• In-depth guided tour of vineyards, wineries, and Berat’s highlights.
• Full-day experience including transport, tastings, and authentic local cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Berat: The UNESCO Jewel

Starting in Durrës, you’ll be transported to Berat, often called the “Town of a Thousand Windows” because of its distinctive Ottoman-era houses with hundreds of small, wooden windows lining the hillsides. As you approach Berat, the landscape unfolds with rolling hills and terraced vineyards, setting a picturesque scene for the day ahead.

The tour’s first major stop is Berat’s Old Town. Wandering through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. The UNESCO designation highlights the town’s harmonious blend of Ottoman architecture, religious sites, and lively neighborhoods. The Gjirokastër-style houses are particularly charming, with their wooden facades and flower boxes. You’ll also visit notable landmarks like Berat Castle, perched high above the city on a hill. The panoramic views from within the fortress walls are stunning, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

Walking through Berat’s old neighborhoods, you’ll notice the rich multicultural vibe—churches, mosques, and old houses coexisting peacefully. Travelers have noted that the Gorica Bridge crossing the Osum River is an iconic photo spot and a great way to connect different parts of the town. Crossing it gives you a sense of the town’s layered history and offers excellent views of the river and surrounding hills.

The Winery Experience: Alpeta Winery’s Hidden Charm

The highlight for many is the visit to Alpeta Winery, located in the scenic hills surrounding Berat. Unlike large commercial wineries, Alpeta is a family-run operation dedicated to traditional methods, which adds a genuine touch to the tasting experience. The journey there is part of the charm—winding roads and lush landscapes set the tone for an authentic Albanian wine adventure.

During the guided tour of the vineyards and wine cellar, you’ll learn about the estate’s history, grape varieties, and aging process. Visitors have appreciated how knowledgeable guides share the story behind each wine, adding context that elevates the tasting. The wines themselves include signature red and white varieties, crafted with attention to quality, and you’ll sample three different local wines, giving you a real sense of Albanian winemaking.

Along With wines, you’ll get to taste locally produced grape raki, including aged options. The reviews suggest that the raki samples are well worth trying, especially if you’re interested in traditional Albanian spirits. One guest mentioned that the aged raki was particularly smooth and flavorful, providing a deeper appreciation for local distilling traditions.

The Farm-to-Table Albanian Lunch

Complete your visit with a hearty Albanian lunch, served at Alpeta’s on-site restaurant. The meal is a highlight for many—focusing on seasonal, local ingredients prepared in traditional style. The menu includes options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

Guests have remarked that the lunch is thoughtfully paired with the wines and raki, enhancing the tasting experience. Expect fresh salads, local appetizers, and a main course featuring regional specialties. The farm-to-table approach means you’ll enjoy dishes made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

The restaurant’s setting in the hills offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, making the meal not only delicious but visually stunning as well. Many reviewers point out that the combination of excellent food, local wine, and peaceful scenery makes this part of the tour especially memorable.

Practicalities and What to Expect

The entire experience is designed for comfort and convenience. Round-trip transportation from Durrës ensures you’ll avoid the hassle of self-driving, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a more intimate atmosphere, and guides are fluent in Albanian, English, and Italian.

Timing-wise, the tour generally spans a full day—so be prepared for a long but rewarding experience. The schedule is flexible enough to include ample time at each stop, but it’s worth noting that the day involves some walking on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces, which might be tiring for some.

Costing $153 per person, including lunch, wine tastings, raki samples, and transport, this tour offers solid value for those interested in a well-rounded Albanian experience. The price reflects the quality of the tastings, the scenic drive, and the opportunity to explore Berat in depth.

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Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast, the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Berat will fascinate you with their architecture and stories. Wine lovers will appreciate the chance to sample Albanian wines and raki crafted with care. Foodies will enjoy a farm-to-table lunch that showcases local ingredients and flavors.

The tour is particularly suited for travelers seeking an authentic, cultural day out in Albania—without rushing or feeling overwhelmed. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy scenic drives, historical exploration, and wine tasting in a relaxed environment.

But be aware that this is a full-day activity requiring moderate walking and exposure to outdoor elements. It’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or guests with mobility issues, given the nature of the terrain and transport.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Durrës is included, simplifying your logistics and allowing you to relax during the drive.

How many wines are tasted during the tour?
You’ll sample three locally produced wines, carefully selected to showcase Albanian varieties, along with two traditional rakis.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the lunch options include vegetarian dishes, and the menu is designed to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Absolutely, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until closer to your scheduled date, offering flexibility for your planning.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, given the alcohol tastings and outdoor walking involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and outdoor vineyard tours are recommended. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially since part of the experience is outdoors.

To sum it up, this Berat day trip with Alpeta Winery offers a rich combination of scenic beauty, historical charm, and authentic Albanian flavors. It’s especially worthwhile for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of what makes Berat unique—its architecture, its wines, and its welcoming rural traditions. The full-day format ensures a rewarding experience, and the thoughtful inclusion of local wine, raki, and fresh cuisine means you’ll leave with both memories and new favorites. Perfect for those who love genuine cultural encounters paired with a touch of indulgence.

You can check availability for your dates here: